Lake Norman Woman Magazine May 2016

PLUS:

M E E T lkn

MILITARY VETERANS HOW TO

care for our

AGING MOMS

featuring

DR. RENE BENSON OF MOORESVILLE PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT CARE, PART OF PIEDMONT HEALTHCARE

MOTHER EARTH: THE INS & OUTS OF RECYCLING

SHEROES THE KIND-HEARTED, DEDICATED, AUTHENTIC, RESILIENT, STRONG, AND COURAGEOUS WOMEN RIGHT HERE IN LAKE NORMAN WHO ARE SIMPLY MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF ANOTHER.

The Stoner Group Helping power company employees with their retirement planning for 20 years

Through the years we’ve helped families understand the importance of a solid retirement plan.

Life is unpredictable. Retirement may be closer than you think.

Let us help you prepare for the unexpected.

Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

The Stoner Group Charles C. Stoner Senior Vice President– Wealth Management

Eileen Stoner, CRPC® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM

Charles M. Stoner Financial Advisor

Amy Lowe Financial Advisor

UBS Financial Services Inc. 16810 Kenton Drive, Suite 310, Huntersville, NC 28078 6100 Fairview Road, 9th Floor, Charlotte, NC 28210 704-765-3254 855-541-0917 toll-free stoner.group@ubs.com

ubs.com/team/thestonergroup

Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM and CRPC® are registered service marks of the College for Financial Planning®. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus.©UBS 2016. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. 12.00_Ad_8.372x10.875_LN0323_Stoner IS1601315 Exp. 3/31/2017

Introducing the All-New 2016 Buick Cascada Now at Randy Marion!

GM Volume Dealer In The

RandyMarion.com

Mooresville I-77 Exit 36 704-664-3303 Huntersville I-77 Exit 23 704-659-7010

We’re honored to be #1 in life insurance.

Helping you protect your #1.

State Farm® is #1 in individual life policies* because people trust us to help protect their families and the moments that are most important in life. Let’s explore your options.

CALL ME TODAY.

David Traugott, Agent 108 Gateway Blvd, Suite 102 Mooresville, NC 28117 Bus: 704-696-8355 www.davidtraugott.com

1506554

*Ranking and data provided by SNL Financial based on reported individual ordinary life insurance policies in force as of year-end 2014.

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL

30

WEEK S OF FREE

LIVE CONCERTS

S E A S O N

EVERY THURSDAY FROM 5PM - 10PM LIVE MUSIC STARTS AT 6:30

2

M AY LINEUP

MAY 5 BLUE MONDAY Tribute Band

MAY 12 MO MONEY R&B

MAY 19 PART TIME BLUES BAND Rocking Blues

MAY 26 BOOMERS

Variety Band LANGTREE LIVE IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

1-77, EXIT 31 119 LANDINGS DRIVE MOORESVILLE, NC 28117

WWW.LANGTREELKN.COM D9 Brewery joins LangTree LIVE this year with beverages available for purchase at each event. Located in Cornelius, D9 is a 10 barrel production brewery who is reimagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer. * Must be 21 years of age or older with valid I.D. to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages at LangTree.

.

STAFF

.

PUBLISHER

Dana Nieters

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

w

LKN

May

volume ix, number xii

SHE ROES!

EDITOR

Amy Hallman

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

OPERATIONS SUPPORT & CONTRIBUTING WRITER Leslie Ogle

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Stephanie Sullivan

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Michele Schuermann

michele@lakenormanwoman.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Juli Simmons

ads@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR Chelsea Bren

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

M AY C O N T R I B U T O R S :

Dr. Todd Hansen; Melissa Braun; Dr. Jessica Slabaugh

C O N TAC T U S : PO Box 1000 Cornelius, NC | 28031

704.895.6168

WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM

Ad Submissions: ads@lakenormanwoman.com Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned.

Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

{FROM

TH E

publisher}

When I was growing up, my world was filled with heroes: Margaret Thatcher, Indira Ghandi, Neil Armstrong, Billie Jean King, Hank Aaron, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Sandra Day O’Connor, Mark Spitz.

To me, these men and women represented the possibility—the expectation, even—that my own future would be just as bright. They gave me hope that I could be everything they were: strong, passionate, successful, principled, and good. They set the bar high on standards of behavior, being kind, compassionate, generous, and humble—for instance, Billie Jean King didn’t dance a victory jig across the mid-court line when she trounced Bobbie Riggs. They had something else in common, too: They were fighters. They didn’t expect success to come easily—they worked hard for every gain, and they held themselves accountable for every setback.

Don’t misunderstand me: I knew even then that my heroes weren’t flawless; we’re all only human, after all. But when I think about the iconic figures of today, I honestly have to scratch my head in bewilderment and ask myself, “Where have all our heroes gone?”

Today, what we have instead of heroes are Hollywood celebrities and millionaire athletes whose crazy publicity antics and downright rude behaviors are far from heroic. Would you believe that in a fairly recent national survey, half the heroes that teenagers named were celebrities, with entertainers and athletes such as Paris Hilton and Mike Tyson rating far more popular than Martin Luther King, Jr. and Abraham Lincoln? How can someone like Paris Hilton rank higher than Martin Luther King, Jr. when her chief claims to fame are occupying a recurring spot in the tabloids and starring in a homemade sex tape?

days. Self-glorifying politicians; entitled, reckless, and even criminal athletes; and greedy and corrupt corporate leaders are also jousting for time in the limelight. These are not the heroes we need.

There are exceptions, of course. There are people in the world who should be seen as heroes, but they rarely get the attention they’re due. That saddens me because in particular, our youth need that kind of hero— heroes that inspire them to do the right thing, accomplish great deeds, face their fears, and help those in need. They need heroes that last, who show it is possible to rise above the frustrations and failures of everyday life, and who demonstrate that adversity is an opportunity for growth.

The good news is that we don’t have to look to Hollywood or the picture on the Wheaties box to find those heroes. In our own communities, there are heroes (and sheroes!) around every corner. Hollywood producers might reject their stories as “ordinary” and they may not be wearing Olympic medals around their necks, but there are multitudes of kind-hearted, dedicated, authentic, resilient, strong, and courageous people right here in Lake Norman who are simply making a difference in the life of another. We found the stories of five such women to share with you this month. We owe these sheroes a tremendous debt for their military service to our country and the protection of our freedoms. Be sure and read their stories in our special section beginning on page 14.

My guess is that heroism is alive and well in your own life, too, much closer than you imagined. You just have to know where to look. Take a peek in the mirror…I think you’ll find her!

-dana

And it’s not just spoiled, self-absorbed celebrities who monopolize the spotlight these

. PUBLISHER

C O N TAC T DA N A V I A E- M A I L AT DA N A @ L A K E N O R M A N WO M A N. C O M

DANA NIETERS

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

9

Contents

M AY 2 0 1 6

18

8 THINGS WE LEARNED FROM WONDER WOMAN

12

44

TAMARA MULLIS & SANDRA GETTS CONSIGN ON A DIME / SHOWPLACE 28

WO M E N O N TH E M OV E

34

w

10 LKN

| MAY 2016

32

VETERAN SPECIAL: Real-Life Sheroes

20

SUCCESS STORY: Unbreakable Bond: Mother-Daughter BFFs!

26

COVER STORY: Surround Yourself With Dreamers

36

LEADING THE WAY: Alicia Waters

44

SUCCESS STORY: Twice As Nice

5 T HI N GS TO D O I N M AY

S C E NE W I TH L K N W

LKNW STAFF QUESTION: What Shero Has Made An Impact On You?

14

in every issue 30

Features

42

Women & Business

Consider Holding Off On Real Estate Social Media Posts

20

JEANNE DORBUCK & DAUGHTER DEBI GALLO, DEBI GALLO REALTY, INC.

36

ALICIA WATERS & DAUGHTER KAYLA DEMENY, IT WORKS! INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR

{

O N THE C OVER:

DR. RENE BENSON OF MOORESVILLE PEDIATRIC

22 24

38

16 40

AND ADOLESCENT CARE, PART OF PIEDMONT HEALTHCARE

PH OTO G R A PH Y BY:

CHELSEA BREN

18 46

Family

Role Reversal: Caring For Our Aging Moms Happy Mother’s Day, Moms-To-Be!

Health

A Tribute To The Sheroes Of Venous Disease

Home

Mother Earth: The Original Shero Kick Off Your Shoes

Self

8 Things We Learned From Wonder Woman MIND BODY SPIRIT: Wellness Is A Proactive Matter

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

11

w

GIRL POWER:

LKN

STAFF’S

What shero has made an impact on you? *(to whom you are not related)

Amy Hallman

Dana Nieters “For over 30 years, I’ve celebrated life’s highs and commiserated through its lows with my best friends, Laura Ogle Graham and Leslie Ogle. Regardless of what dumb thing I say or do, awful mistake I make, or even when the pure crazy comes out in me, I know they’ll love me anyway (and provide an alibi if necessary). That they accept me just as I am has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. Friends since teenagers, I know we’ll be friends until we’re old and senile—and then we’ll be new friends!”

“I’ve heard Lisa Wardrop say on many occasions that she wouldn’t question who God brought to her in her volunteer coordinator role at church. She is steadfast, confident, and selfless in her faith and in her leadership, and I was simply humbled to be around her. She could have turned me away for my ‘greenness,’ but instead she spoke life into my strengths and guided me through my weaknesses.”

Elizabeth Buehler “When I was younger I was the typical, cranky, overrebellious teenager, who didn’t like going home. My best friend’s mom, Gina Rhodes, was always there to provide an ear to listen and, occasionally, a shoulder to cry on. This woman cared for

me like I was her daughter and showed me to always be kind to others because you never know what they’re going through!”

Leslie Ogle “Although she was technically my mother’s friend, Chris Rash was dear to all of us. She lost her husband in a tragic car wreck leaving her a young widow with two boys under the age of 4.

She later fought cancer and was taken from us way too young. Her incredible zest for life and ‘come what may’ attitude helped shape my outlook and approach to life.”

Michele Schuermann “For better or worse, college roommates shape us in a major way.

Luckily, I got Jamie Hoon. Her positive outlook and adventurous spirit made a big impact on who I became. From fun nights to serious life decisions, she made growing up a little easier.

Now, even with seven kids between the two of us, and three states apart, we remain close friends.”

Chelsea Bren “Linda Osbon, a co-worker turned friend, impacted me during a very influential time in my life. Linda taught me to be as skeptical as you are open-minded, both socially and politically. I hope to have half her strength.”

Stephanie Sullivan “A woman who influenced me was my neighbor, Pam Rogus. I even called her my second mom. She was there for me and took care of me like the daughter she never had. When my mom couldn’t be around, I knew I could count on her—and I still can!”

Why pay mall prices, when you can pay our “gently used” prices?

We pay you CASH On-the-Spot We buy and sell clothing, shoes, accessories, toys and equipment.

Our stores are fun, organized and easy to shop... So you can find what you are looking for without hunting through a jungle of product.

Resale for children sizes 0-14

10035 Biddick Lane, Huntersville | 704-237-4441 | childrensorchard.com

w

12 LKN

| MAY 2016

When you have the right financial advisor, life can be brilliant.

You’ve worked hard for your money. You want your money to work hard for you. Using our Confident Retirement® approach, we’ll work with you to develop a customized plan that can help you realize your financial goals – today and well into the future.

Becky L. Johnson, CFP® Private Wealth Advisor Retirement Direction Group A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 17810 Statesville Rd, Ste 312 & 322 Cornelius, NC 28031 704.892.7575 becky.l.johnson@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/ team/retirement-direction-group The Confident Retirement® approach is not a guarantee of future financial results.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. © 2015 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (10/15)

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

13

Branch of Armed Services: U.S. Army, 1985

to 1993

Wartime Service:

Operation Desert Shield/ Storm & Somalia Inspiration for Joining the Service: There was

REAL-LI

FE

s e o r she

a tradition of service in our family. Both my maternal grandfather and my father were in the Army. Their service was very important to them.

My father went on to be a Virginia State trooper, and my mom worked as a matron for our sheriff ’s department, y e cowl as had my aunt. But ultimately, for me, it was the promise of a college education, a guaranteed job after, and just doing something different than what everyone else from my little town was doing. The more people said I couldn’t or shouldn’t, the more determined I became.

lynn

Best Part of Being in the Armed Services: There is a camaraderie among veterans that can’t be matched, a network that accepts you, lifts you up, and encourages you.

It’s amazing.

Greatest Challenges: West Point! It’s designed to test

you beyond your limits and show you what you really are capable of; but, wow, it really breaks you down and makes you question yourself at times.

What You Want Americans to Know: To please

WHILE THE ROLE OF WOMEN in our military has expanded greatly over the years, women throughout our history have stepped up to the challenge and served our country. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice, and our nation owes all the women who have served with valor, honor, commitment, and sacrifice a deep debt of gratitude. With May being the month of Memorial Day, a time in which we honor the service men and women who died protecting our freedom, we decided it was the perfect time to shine our spotlight on women right here in the Lake Norman community who have served our country.

Branch of Armed Services:

U.S. Coast Guard, 2012 to 2016 Wartime Service: I was

deployed for counter drug missions.

laura moses

w

14 LKN

| MAY 2016

Inspiration for Joining the Service: I was a student at NC

State and I didn’t feel inspired or happy about my upcoming graduation—I was in a rut.

That same year, my sister was deployed to Afghanistan. I was

so incredibly proud of (and scared for) her. I withdrew from NCSU and went straight to the Coast Guard office in Raleigh.

Best Part of Being in the Armed Services: The bond

you have with the people from the start. Everyone becomes your family.

Greatest Challenges: Trying

to assert myself in a male-

remember the families of service members. Not only do they live with the reality of a family member in harm’s way, but they move every two to three years, and sometimes to less-than-spectacular places. It’s hard to maintain a career, it makes school incredibly challenging, and sports and friendships have to be rebooted constantly for kids. It’s a tough life in many respects.

Advice for young women thinking of joining? Be tough, mentally and physically. It’s not an easy life, but it will bring out some great qualities in you. As with everything, the more you put in, the more you will get out.

Don’t be passive, and don’t do it for anyone else!

dominated work place. It was difficult to gain respect while in leadership positions. A lot of men would be too scared to talk to me, where as others would try to make me quit.

What You Want Americans to Know: We are flattered

by your support. We join the service to serve the country we love and the people in it. But, it is truly humbling to have people shake your

hand and let you know they appreciate you. Thank you for your support!

Advice for young women thinking of joining? I am

so proud of any woman who wants to join. It is empowering. But be patient, as the military is still adapting to us. Just prepare and have confidence; you deserve to be there!

ana

Branch of Armed Services: U.S.

located, and this was an inspiration to me.

Wartime Service: I served in

Best Part of Being in the Armed Services: The officer

Navy, 2012 to 2016

a combat theater, Operation Enduring Freedom 13.2, Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

m e ss le r

Inspiration for Joining the Service: My desire to keep

r e f i n jen

zieg

people in the fighting force when deployed and to prevent suicide. I was working for the Veterans Administration as a psychologist when I joined at age 34, and developed a passion for working with veterans that led to my wanting to join the military. I joined the Navy Medicine community.

My grandmother was in the Women’s Army Corps during World War II and was one of few women serving in the South Pacific, where she was

Greatest Challenges: Frequent

relocation! You definitely need to have geographic flexibility.

What You Want Americans to Know: First, military personnel

are so grateful for your support!

It amazed us every day in Afghanistan to see all the food, letters, and just the moraleboosting stuff that people send.

It gives us an immense pride to be an American; that makes it all worthwhile. Second, you’d be

Advice for young women thinking of joining? This

is going to be the defining experience of your life. It will be what you tell your children and your grandchildren about, your legacy. It is going to be a ton of responsibility; you’re going to grow; you’re going to look back at yourself and be proud of what you’ve done. But you can’t be the type of person who just wants to get by. You have to love challenge and pushing yourself to the limit, mentally and physically.

ler Branch of Armed Services: U.S. Navy,

Branch of Armed Services: U.S.

1991 to 2001

Navy, 1993 to 1999

Wartime Service:

Peacetime Service: I did not serve

Gulf War

in combat. The period of time I served was just after the Gulf War in 1991, and during conflicts that the U.S. participated in with Bosnia and Kosovo.

Inspiration for Joining the Service: I grew up

Inspiration for Joining the Service:

For personal development and to make a difference. I was in a special program designed for college students to serve actively in the Naval reserve, so they could pursue college prior to their military service. I was working three jobs in college, so this helped me immensely to pay my own way.

Best Part of Being in the Armed Services: I credit my current career

in financial services to the Navy. It really gave me a career to build on and a compass to discover what I wanted to pursue. But foremost, the people were the best part. I was treated as a colleague and friend. I was able to offer ideas and make a contribution to serve my country. My heart is very full when I think of the generosity, teamwork, and camaraderie that is uniquely found in the military.

Greatest Challenges: Terrorism.

training course in Newport, Rhode Island, was a blast! It’s almost like “Survivor,” and you’re all in it together, helping each other get through.

amazed at what people will do for this country. It will give you faith in this generation. There are so many 18-year-olds going out on mission after mission. They may be down to 90 pounds, and they’re mentally fried; but they’re loving it because they’re doing it for their country and for human life.

When I worked at the U.S. Embassy in London, we were not allowed to wear our uniforms because of the increased terrorist threats. Although it was challenging, I also enjoyed boot camp. I learned how to survive chemical

warfare, put out fires, create personal floatation in the event of a capsizing, fire a pistol, and how to do a lot of push-ups!

What You Want Americans to Know: We live in the greatest country

in the world, and our freedom is not free. Our military is voluntary, and they deserve our respect and admiration.

I am in awe of the personal sacrifice so many have made for our country.

Whether we agree with the politics of war, we need to support the service people and their families who made the sacrifice to serve.

Advice for young women thinking of joining? Don’t let your gender or

your family history hold you back.

There are many opportunities available if you work hard, no matter what your situation. Pursuing a military career, even for a short time, exposed me to so many experiences and training opportunities to develop me into the person I am today.

in a small town in upstate New York. There was not a lot of opportunity there for jobs without a college education. The military was the solution to get me out of my small town and would eventually pay for my college education when I was ready to pursue a degree.

Best Part of Being in the Armed Services: Meeting so many

people from all over the world and traveling to places that I would not have had the opportunity to do so, otherwise. This includes meeting my husband of 22 years in Okinawa, Japan, while he was deployed to my duty station as a U.S. Marine.

Greatest Challenges: Being away from family and keeping a dualmilitary family stationed together.

Since my husband and I were in different branches, there were few duty stations that would allow us to stay together. We spent our first two years with very little time together.

What You Want Americans to Know: Military personnel have

chosen to dedicate their lives to

danielle

making a better world for us to live in.

They have logue given up their familiar surroundings, family life, and everything we take for granted on a daily basis, all to ensure that our freedom to enjoy those things is protected. While we go about our day worrying about trivial things, there are military personnel worrying that they will live through the day, or a family member worrying they will never see their loved one again.

Advice for young women thinking of joining? Go for it!

I loved my time in the military.

While traditionally a man’s world, I was never treated with anything but respect. You have to work hard and prove yourself regardless if you are male or female. It is not an easy life by any means, but the opportunities it provides makes it well worth it.

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

15

Mother Earth,

the Original Shero & THE INS AND OUTS OF RECYCLING

Did you ever wonder if putting that sticky syrup or ketchup bottle in the recycling bin would ruin the whole batch? Putting the wrong materials into the recycling bin will, at the very least, slow the entire process.

© Zetaty | Dreamstime.com

HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO HELP MAKE MOTHER EARTH PROUD: • DO rinse glass, metal, and plastic containers. While the machinery will zap most contaminants, too much residue can create problems.

• DO contact your local recycling center regarding pizza boxes and to-go coffee cups.

Grease on pizza boxes and wax or plastic liners in coffee cups can exclude these items from the recycling process altogether.

• DO collect newspapers in a paper grocery bag or in tied bundles. It takes up to 75,000 trees to produce one Sunday edition of The New York Times.

• DO rinse cans, but crushing isn’t necessary.

The aluminum can is the most recycled item in the United States, as well as the most valuable. It can be recycled over and over— so efficiently that a can is regenerated and back on the shelf in less than two months.

• DO contact www.e-steward.org on how to properly recycle your electronics.

• DON’T recycle wet cardboard; it can clog sorting machines.

• DON’T mingle plastic bags. In the rest of your recyclables. They will tangle and cause the machines to shut down.

• DON’T recycle bottle tops; they’re not made from the same plastic as recyclable bottles.

w

16 LKN

| MAY 2016

LKN RECYCLING RESOURCES North Mecklenburg Recycling Center

12300 N. Statesville Rd. Huntersville, NC 704.947.8761 www.charmeck.org Lincoln County Public Works/Solid Waste Division

5291 Crouse Rd. Crouse, NC 704.732.9030 www.lincolncounty.org Town of Mooresville

413 N. Main St. Mooresville, NC 704.664.4278 www.ci.mooresville.nc.us Mooresville Transfer Station (county)

158 Macleod Dr. Mooresville, NC 704.663.5314 www.co.iredell.nc.us Central Site— Statesville

3918 Wilkesboro Hwy. Statesville, NC 704.876.2666 www.co.iredell.nc.us See this site for additional Statesville locations. © Flair Images | Dreamstime.com

For more information on recycling, visit www.earth911.com, or for full-service recycling centers in your area, visit www.charmeck.org.

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

17

NOW AVAILABLE:

3D Mammography Why 3D? Schedule your 3D mammogram today.

Iredell Women’s Health Center 735 Hartness Road Statesville, NC

Call 704.878.4551

• Early detection of

cancers and other abnormalities

• Low dose radiation • Highly detailed images

reduce the need for additional imaging

Women’s Health Center

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

19

UNBREAKABLE BOND:

Mother-Daughter

BFFs!

BY: LESLIE OGLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY HAIR: JESSICA CLARK VALERIA SALON

S O M E C A N B E R O C K Y, and some can be smooth, but the mother-daughter relationship is one to be nurtured, protected, and valued. Debi Gallo and her mother, Jeanne Dorbuck, of Cornelius, certainly cherish theirs, and it shows.

The family is from Hartford, Connecticut, a city sandwiched between Boston and the Big Apple.

Growing up a city girl, Debi had to have some street smarts and a keen sense of observation; these have been useful traits in the world of real estate where Debi shines.

“When I was a young adult,” Debi says, “Mom took my face in her hands, looked into my eyes, and said, ‘No one will ever love a child like a mother; a mother will always tell you what is best for you.’ I carry those words with me always.”

Today, with Mom by her side, Debi is grateful. “We were so glad when Mom and Dad decided to follow suit and move to the Charlotte area in 2014,” Debi recalls.

“Sadly, Dad fell ill and passed at Thanksgiving in 2015 and, since then, we’ve been dealing with Mom’s health.

While preparing for knee surgery, she failed the stress test and had to have open-heart surgery. She suffered a stroke during the surgery and was in intensive care for six days. It’s been difficult to say the least, but Mom is a trooper, and we are a strong family thanks to her.”

Debi has two grown sons, Dan and Joe. Dan designs roads and bridges for the South Carolina Department of Transportation, and Joe owns Luxury RV Rentals in Concord where both Debi and Jeanne help out.

Debi Gallo & mom Jeanne Dorbuck DEBI GALLO REALTY, INC CORNELIUS, NC

“Mom and I both love going there to work,” Debi says.

“It’s so different than real estate. I go in and scrub the floors of an RV or run out for a radiator hose—I just love it! You tie up your hair, roll up your sleeves, and pitch in. Mom answers phones, greets customers, and is everyone’s favorite, fun lady.”

Although Jeanne is still facing knee surgery, she and Debi enjoy staying fit through yoga and swimming.

On any given Saturday, you will find Jeanne working in real estate with Debi, or you might see her on Wednesdays helping to deliver an RV. She also has plans to volunteer for the American Heart Association in Huntersville, sharing her journey as a heart patient.

“I am nervous about the knee surgery,” Jeanne says, “but I know I have to be brave and persevere. I’m ready to get back to my spunky self and enjoy life— and I need my energy to keep up with Debi!”

‘NO ONE WILL EVER LOVE A CHILD LIKE A MOTHER; A MOTHER WILL ALWAYS TELL YOU WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU.’

w

20 LKN

| MAY 2016

Debi’s firm, Debi Gallo Realty, Inc., is affiliated with Southern Homes of the Carolinas. Also, she is the broker-in-charge of their newest location, The Fairways at River Oaks. “Real Estate has been great for me,” Debi shares. “One sale at a time has led to over 700 successful transactions. Having a team of realtors has become very rewarding for me. This is all even more special because I get to work with my mom every day.”

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

21

family

Role Reversal: CARING FOR OUR AGING MOMS

create her favorite dishes and freeze for future use.

T H E Y G AV E U S L I F E , and they taught us to walk, talk, and become a responsible adult; now it’s our turn to take care of them. Aging is difficult for everyone, and it can be particularly emotional when it comes to our mommies! They are life givers so when the roles are reversed, it’s time to put on your big-girl trousers and take charge. Here’s what we can do to make this life transition easier for you both:

Take a drive with her.

This is a difficult topic to broach, so tread lightly. There’s only one way to determine if her driving is still safe, and that is to get in the passenger seat. If it looks like a revocation of license is necessary, ease into it by asking her to go with you to the grocery store and to run errands—so it looks like you just want her company not her driver’s license!

Be patient.

Use kind words that empower Mom. Continue to ask her for advice and her opinion so she feels she still has a say in the matters at hand.

Watch her meds.

© Katarzyna Bialasiewicz | Dreamstime.com

Talk to a financial planner.

You may need to take over the bills; are they stacking up or going unpaid? A financial planner will counsel you on everything from living arrangements to the ever-important living will.

Reevaluate Mom’s living space.

Look into such things as easy-to-use handles and switches, pullout cabinets, bathroom alterations, and staircase safety. Also, how’s the housekeeping? If you notice that the bathroom or kitchen cleanliness is not up to par, this could be a red flag.

RESOURCES These local senior services offer a wide range of health, education, recreation, and social activities for older adults, as well as Meals on Wheels and other helpful resources:

w

22 LKN

| MAY 2016

Talk with family members and assign chores.

Sometimes our worst characteristics come out under stress. Have a family meeting and agree on who will do what.

Keep Mom socially active.

Depression is common among the elderly so keep her engaged with exercise, eating out, or just a trip to the park.

Cook and clean for her.

Just knowing that you care enough to come help out will do wonders for her state of mind. Have a cooking party and

IREDELL COUNCIL ON AGING

It is common for aging seniors to self-medicate and ration their medications at their own discretion; your local pharmacist is a valuable resource for advice. You may also need to consider having a medical Power of Attorney which will give you the authority to make medical decisions.

Consult the experts.

Support groups, attorneys, counselors, community, and federal aid—don’t be afraid to ask for help! Especially if you are going to be a full-time, in-home caregiver.

For more information on aging parents, visit www.aarp.org.

LINCOLN COUNTY SENIOR CENTER

NORTH MECK SENIOR CENTER

www.iredellcoa.com

www.lincolncounty.org

www.charmeck.org

Mooresville: 202 N. Church St., 704.662.3337

514 South Academy Street Lincolnton, NC 28093 704.732.9053

102 Gilead Road Huntersville, NC 28078 704.948.2486

Statesville: 344 East Front St., 704.873.8568

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

23

family

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY,

Moms-to-Be!

F R O M T H E F I R S T M O M E N T you get the news to the nine months that follow and beyond, there really is only so much about pregnancy and motherhood that you can truly prepare for. Everyone is different and each situation unique. To prepare you for some of the unsolicited dos and don’ts, here are a few helpful tips:

• When it comes to maternity clothes, GO WITH COMFORT. Don’t spend a lot of money on fashion. You’d be surprised how cute your hubby’s shirts look on you with a simple pair of leggings.

And don’t be afraid to wear fitted clothes; your baby bump is beautiful!

• SAVE RECEIPTS. You may be

tempted to buy many unnecessary items, but you can exchange them later for the essentials—like diapers!

• Educate yourself about the BIRTHING PROCESS. Knowledge is power, and it will help you feel more in control. And it is good to have some understanding about C-sections, just in case.

• Try to BREASTFEED WITHIN AN HOUR of delivery, as research shows it seems the sooner the better. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff. To help, ask the nurses not to offer your baby a bottle.

• Consider having your newborn “ROOM IN” with you rather than stay in the hospital nursery; this is important bonding time.

• KEEP VISITORS AT BAY for a

while so that you can spend time alone with the baby. Newborns are alert and receptive immediately after birth so it’s the optimum time to bond. Additionally, the baby knows your voice from being tucked in your belly, and it provides soothing comfort after that long trip down the birth canal.

• DON’T BUNDLE YOUR BABY too

much—babies cannot regulate their body temperature until they’re about 6 months old. Sweating can cause chills, so layers are a better option. Generally speaking, the baby should wear the same amount of clothing as you do (indoors and out).

For more information on pregnancy and early motherhood, visit www.fitpregnancy.com. © Pojoslaw | Dreamstime.com

w

24 LKN

| MAY 2016

Spring into Summer Looking and Feeling Your Best!

Special Cosmetic Event May 19, 2016, 4-7 p.m.

Please RSVP. Space is Limited!

Schedule your Botox Treatment and get a FREE GIFT ($75 value)! 25 units minimum 20% Off all SkinMedica purchases.

PLUS...Special pricing on miraDry & Kybella

Naomi Simon, MD

Scott Paviol, MD

Kristin Prochaska, PA-C

Lauren Wilson, PA-C, MMS

Cosmetic Procedures: Botox® • Juvéderm® • Voluma Kybella • Dysport® • Restylane® Rejuvapen • Microdermabrasion Chemical Peels • Hair Removal Photorejuvenation miraDry®/miraSmooth

Call for an appointment today!

Skin Care Product Lines: SkinMedica® • Elta MD® Revision Skincare • Latisse®

www.mooresvilledermcenter.com

704.235.1827

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 facebook.com/MooresvilleDermCenter | www.piedmonthealthcare.com

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

25

Prior to moving to Mooresville nearly nine years ago, the couple began investing in real estate with flipping and rentals in mind. They bought a lakehouse in Mooresville, which they gutted, renovated, and planned to flip. During the process, however, the real estate market turned, and they decided they would live in whichever house didn’t sell first. As fate would have it, their Statesville house sold, so they moved to Mooresville.

“I continued to build a successful practice in Statesville” she says. “Over the last year, an opportunity arose through the Piedmont HealthCare group to extend pediatrics into Mooresville.

I knew at that moment it was the perfect choice for me professionally but, more importantly, personally.

Although I was trying to give 100 percent to both my practice and my family, it was hard to maintain. My heart and soul were in Mooresville, and I was spending most of my time at work in Statesville. I felt like God was opening the door a little too easily for me not to run through it.”

And through it she ran.

In March, Dr. Benson and colleague Dr. Stephen

“ I felt like God was opening the door a little too easily for me not to run through it.”

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

27

Dr. Benson and colleague Dr. Stephen Malloney

Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, for “learning what it truly meant to be a woman who embraced and supported other phenomenal women.

“It set the foundation for success for all my life goals,” she says. “Without the sense of self that I developed there, I wouldn’t have been able to survive my medical training and other obstacles.”

One of the toughest times in her life, Dr. Benson shares, was the loss of her first pregnancy at 19 weeks, a result of a major brain defect. It was devastating for both her and her husband, and she found it particularly difficult to return to pediatric care.

“I always say, ‘Surround yourself with dreamers,’ and what better way than with our children.”

Malloney opened Mooresville Pediatric and Adolescent Care, part of Piedmont HealthCare. With approximately 25 years combined experience, these passionate physicians offer up-to-date medical expertise in a brand new, state-of-the-art, family-friendly facility.

Dr. Benson grew up in Princeton, West Virginia, in a single-parent household.

Her parents divorced when she was only 2 years old, and her mother eventually remarried. Her mother, she says, and her older sister showed her what it meant to be a strong, independent woman. Dr. Benson also credits her experience at

w

28 LKN

| MAY 2016

“The hardest thing I’ve ever done,” she says, “was returning to my pediatric practice after losing my child. My hopes and dreams were crushed for a long time. It truly was my darkest hour. It is impossible to convey how difficult it was to go to the office and see other children when my heart was broken. By God’s grace and divine plan, I was able to carry on. I had the overwhelming support of my husband, family, physician partners, friends, and staff; they were incredible and helped heal my soul. Subsequently, I have been able to continue to offer my gifts to my patients. With God’s guidance, I have had the privilege of being involved in people’s most intimate moments. I have been allowed to save lives and to provide comfort to those in need. I am truly blessed and profoundly grateful. I always say, ‘Surround yourself with dreamers,’ and what better way than with our children.”

BEFORE

• Dedication to the Treatment of Spider and Varicose Veins and Venous Insufficiency • In-Office Diagnosis & Treatment • Minimally Invasive Procedures

Dr. Steve Folstad Dr. Todd Hansen

206 Joe Knox Ave., Suite H Mooresville, NC 28117 CarolinaVeinAssociates.com

• Comprehensive Care Close To Home • Quick Recovery Time

AFTER

• FREE Monthly Vein Screenings!

704.684.4511

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

29

䠀伀倀匀℀ 匀 䬀 刀 伀 圀

刀 䔀 䴀 匀唀䴀 爀攀最椀猀琀攀爀 漀渀氀椀渀攀㨀

眀眀眀⸀爀攀攀氀愀挀愀搀攀洀礀氀欀渀⸀挀漀洀 ㄀㔀㌀ 䴀愀爀欀攀琀瀀氀愀挀攀 䄀瘀攀⸀ 䴀漀漀爀攀猀瘀椀氀氀攀 一䌀 ㈀㠀㄀㄀㜀 ⠀㜀 㐀⤀ 㘀㔀㤀ⴀ㘀㔀㤀㜀

women move O N

T H E

AMY LAIDLAW, compliance

specialist and processor, and Paul Carini, branch manager, have opened Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. (PRMI) in Huntersville. This national mortgage company emphasizes local branches maintaining local decisions and operations for clients.

DR. DEVI THANGAVELU has joined Charlotte Gastroenterology & Hepatology’s medical team. She is board certified in gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine. Dr. Thangavelu practiced gastroenterology for seven years with a large multispecialty practice in New York.

Attorneys JENNIFER ERRINGTON, ERIKA ERLENBACH, and MAREN WERTS of The McIntosh Law Firm in Davidson recently helped high school students get a firsthand look at what it’s like to be a lawyer at the Regional High School Mock Trial Tournament. The event was presented by the Carolina Center For Civic Education and the North Carolina Advocates For Justice. The tournament, held at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, featured over 700 students from across the state.

CHRISTINA BURGIN has been promoted to vice president of operations at Squeegee Pros, Inc. Squeegee Pros, a commercial and residential window cleaning, pressure washing, and gutter-cleaning company, is based in Mooresville.

Longtime LKN resident

CATHERINE PLOUGH has published a young adult novel entitled The Blu Phenomenon, available through all major book distributors. Catherine’s novel has received endorsements from Harry Wu, human rights activist and founder of The Laogai Research Foundation, and from Susan Soonkeum Cox, Holt International vice president on policy and external affairs.

w

30 LKN

| MAY 2016

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

31

calendar

12

w

5 THINGS AN LKN OMAN S H O U L D D O I N M AY

FRI. & SAT., MAY 6 & 7:

NORTH CAROLINA BREWERS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville 12 noon-10 p.m.

See www.ncbrewsmusic.com for ticket information.

This two-day festival has 12 great bands and lots of North Carolina ales and lagers—plus a few select outof-state craft breweries. Enjoy beer tasting, great food, and kids’ activities. All proceeds from North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival will go toward the preservation and advancement of Historic Rural Hill and its mission.

SAT. MAY 7:

3RD ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST & TOUR Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Dr., Charlotte 7:30 to 10 a.m.; Breakfast served at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets: $20 each, children 3 & under are free Take your families and honor mothers of all ages with a buffet breakfast and a guided Journey of Faith tour. Each mother in attendance will receive a special gift. Tickets are $20 per person; children 3 and under are free.

Tickets should be purchased

by Thursday, May 5.

w

32 LKN

| MAY 2016

3

SAT., MAY 7:

SHIRLEY’S ANGELS: LOVE YOUR HEADLIGHTS 5K AND 5.5 MILER Huntersville Business Park, 9735 Kincey Ave., Huntersville 7:30 a.m. 10K (and +5K) start; 8:45 a.m. 5K start; 9:45 a.m. Fun Run start Registration costs vary; see www.shirleyangels.org Shirley’s Angels: Love Your Headlights 5K & 10K—and this year’s allnew kid’s Fun Run—is being held to support Shirley’s Angels, local nonprofit, that helps those battling breast cancer. Music will be provided by 107.9 the Link. There will be medals for all children under 12.

4

SAT., MAY 14:

HELLO HUNTERSVILLE, MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL Downtown Huntersville 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This annual local arts celebration will include live music, demonstrations, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, the Huntersville Growers’ Market, and local businesses.

5

S AT. MAY 14:

RACE CITY FESTIVAL Downtown Mooresville 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This annual outdoor street fair attracts people from all over every year, showcasing the various cultures, arts, businesses, and people. The familyoriented festival is held rain or shine.

There will be 200 vendor booths, a food court, live entertainment on two stages, and a beer garden.

HEALTH

BY CHOICE NOT BY CHANCE CHIROPRACTIC CARE

ADULTS | CHILDREN | ATHLETES | PREGNANCY

PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINING NUTRITION

704.896.8112 21031 Catawba Ave, Cornelius | zimmermanfamilywellness.com

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

33

“ Scene”

W I T H

w

LKN

BE SCENE LAKE NORMAN WOMAN is getting out and about each month, looking for great events and the fabulous and exciting Lake Norman people who are making them happen! So next time you’re at a chamber event, a new business in the area, or just out having fun, look for Lake Norman Woman and our camera. Who knows, you just might find yourself in next month’s

“SCENE WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”

The Cash Group’s Haley Fay, Julie Cash, and Barbara Shraga at the Keller Williams awards, where they won 2015 Top Group Sales and Top Closed Units

LKNW’s Michele with Westlake restaurant Owner Gus Beligrinis at its Relay for Life fundraiser

LKNW’s Stephanie and Michele at the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame ribbon cutting

View more Scene photos & more at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/ LakeNormanWoman

w

34 LKN

| MAY 2016

LKNW’s Amy with 2015 Woman of Will Jane Bolton at the Angels of ’97 Spaghetti Dinner LKNW’s Michele with Max Duggins at Latta Nature Center Easter Egg Hunt

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

35

LKNW FEA T U RE

Leading The Way As we rise into leadership roles, it’s not always easy to navigate the leadership path. After all, there are as many leadership traits as there are leaders. LKN Woman talks to area leaders in the hope that we can learn from each other’s successes and failures in confronting leadership challenges.

ALICIA WATERS, It Works! Independent Distributor

All leaders have people that influenced them to become who they are today. Alicia Waters looks up to speaker and pastor, Joel Osteen, for his presentation style and his ability to tell stories. A more personal figure that Alicia admires is her father. “He has remained constant throughout my life,” Alicia says. “I see a lot of leadership qualities in him that I try to emulate.”

Alicia Waters and her daughter, Kayla Demeny

DEFINE LEADERSHIP:

“Leadership is an action and not necessarily a title. It is never asking my team to do something I would not do myself.

Leadership is setting a good example for others to follow.”

BY: ELIZABETH BUEHLER

Life AS A

Leader

w

36 LKN

| MAY 2016

FIRST JOB: Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream scooper

CAREER ADVICE: The

COMFORT FOOD:

In February 2013, I received a $50,000 bonus after a big promotion.

homemade spaghetti

I WISH I HAD MORE TIME TO: read

fortune is in the follow up.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT:

BIGGEST PET PEEVE:

Whiners

Alicia believes a good leader has integrity and is hard working, caring, and multifaceted. Alicia is an independent distributor with It Works!, a company that distributes health, wellness, and skin care products with a holistic, wellness approach. “I am a tough-love leader,” she says. “I won’t give you the answers—when you already know the answers. I will ask you the right questions and prompt you to think.”

Her father, Pastor Ken Jones, has been leading mission trips around the world for years, work that Alicia hopes to continue later in life. For now, she lifts up her own causes. Alicia has been to Thailand to promote humanand sex-trafficking awareness. Trips to Peru, Mexico, and Brazil have been sponsored in partnership through the Southern Baptist International Mission Board to focus on evangelism and medical missions.

Alicia plans to continue to inspire her growing team at It Works! to meet their personal goals. She says she is most satisfied when others around her have success, too. Two years ago, Alicia was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. After six weeks of chemotherapy, her numbers have improved. “My doctor told me to go and live my life,” she says. “That is what I am going to do. I attribute my steady numbers to my holistic treatment with It Works! products and a positive attitude. I am growing daily and pushing past excuses to be the best leader I can be, and show others that no matter their circumstances they deserve victory!”

IF YOU COULD MAKEOVER ANYTHING: I want to

renovate an old Florida Keys hotel into a Christian couples retreat and dive center.

WHEN I LEAVE WORK:

I love to watch reality television shows.

LAST THING I RESEARCHED ON THE INTERNET: Disney

motivational quotes

HOW WOULD YOUR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS DESCRIBE YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Shy and unmotivated

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

37

© Zlikovec | Dreamstime.com

health

A TRIB U TE T O T HE SHE ROES OF

Venous Disease BY: TODD HANSEN, MD

M I L L I O N S O F W O M E N suffer silently, and often unknowingly, with the symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Simply stated, CVI is the inefficient flow of venous blood from the legs back to the heart, with blood tending to fall with gravity and pool in the legs. While a disease that affects both men and women, it is the fairer sex that is most burdened by the disease.

In the United States, up to 30 percent of the population is affected by chronic venous insufficiency, the majority of those being women. Largely because of heredity and environmental factors, such as standing for long periods, and amplified by the influence of hormones and the impact of pregnancy, women are burdened more frequently than men with symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.

If more men had the symptoms of CVI, one may wonder if more attention would be directed toward recognizing the condition and getting “something done to fix it!” Alas, vein disease in general remains a bit of a “red-haired stepchild” in medicine; and to no small degree, the medical establishment and society in general largely minimize or ignore vein-disease symptoms. Leg Heaviness, Aching, Swelling, Throbbing or Itching (HASTI symptoms) are frequently not recognized immediately by women because they develop slowly.

Because our sheroes are busy, overachieving, active leaders in our families, workplace, and communities, they understandably attribute such symptoms to being the byproduct of a busy and productive life, often believing that it’s just part of growing older.

w

38 LKN

| MAY 2016

Our medical establishment does not help our modern-day shero because many practitioners are applying a 20+-yearold understanding of vein disease and treatment. At that time, the treatment was frequently worse than the disease itself, and “learning to live with it” wasn’t necessarily a bad decision. Past treatments were painful with long recoveries and unacceptably high rates of failure or recurrence. Today, the second best-kept secret about vein care is that none of that is true anymore. Just as our shero doesn’t need to have visible varicose veins to suffer from CVI, treatments no longer have to cause suffering to be effective. In fact, there are now office-based “lunch hour” procedures with high rates of success and short recoveries.

For those wondering what the first “best-kept secret” in vein care today is, it is how truly common this disease is.

One in three people has vein disease. If, of those three, each is over 50—and if more than one is a shero—then odds are great that two have vein disease. If all are over 80 years old, then there is a greater than 80 percent likelihood of vein disease. Chronic venous insufficiency is more common than coronary heart disease and peripheral arterial disease combined! Yet it remains a little-known secret.

For all the sheroes in our lives who suffer silently with any of these symptoms, don’t assume that “getting older” is meant to come with such baggage. We want you to know that there are good options for treatment, but that the first step is recognizing that your legs “might have a problem.”

Seek out knowledgable vein-care experts for reliable information about your vein health.

Dr. Todd Hansen is a vein specialist at Carolina Vein Associates, 206 Joe Knox Ave., Ste. H, in Mooresville, specializing in in-office treatment and care of varicose veins, spider veins, and venous insufficiency diseases. For more information, visit www.carolinaveinassociates.com, or contact the office at 704.684.4511.

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

39

offyour

KICK

shoes:

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T WEAR SHOES IN THE HOUSE

you know an lkn woman who: do

© Lomachevsky | Dreamstime.com

Demonstrates exceptional LEADERSHIP & PASSION?

Makes a DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES of others?

Serves as an INSPIRATIONAL

ROLE MODEL?

Is GUTSY, DETERMINED, & STRONG?

nominate her

FOR LKNW’S 2016 WOMEN OF WILL AWARDS! ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS JUNE 1ST ON OUR WEBSITE: WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM

particularly from Asian cultures, have removed their shoes before entering their living space for thousands of years. Because their lifestyle focuses on the floor— it’s where they eat, sleep, exercise, and meditate—keeping it clean is essential. There are also those who practice foot reflexology and believe that being barefoot stimulates vital pressure points in the feet, toughens your soles, and improves musculoskeletal structure in the foot and ankle. But there are additional reasons to kick off your shoes before entering your home: MANY PEOPLE,

• A University of Arizona study found an average of 421,000 different bacteria on the outside of shoes.

• Some of the bacteria found includes: “E. coli,

known to cause intestinal and urinary tract infections, meningitis and diarrheal disease; Klebsiella pneumonia, a common source for wound and bloodstream infections as well as pneumonia; and Serratia ficaria, a rare cause of infections in the respiratory tract and wounds.”

704.608.9470 AnnieLewisEventPlanning.com Over 20 years of experience planning Corporate, Non-Profit & Milestone events

w

40 LKN

| MAY 2016

• About 96 percent of coliform and E. coli bacteria on the outside of shoes suggests frequent contact with fecal

material, most likely from

public restrooms.

• The study also indicates that bacteria can be tracked

by shoes over long distances—into your home;

this is particularly concerning for those with small children who crawl and play on the floors.

• Other contaminants can be tracked in, as well, such as

toxins from the lawn or tar from the streets.

*

For more information on this study, visit the Cleaning Industry Research Institute at www.ciriscience.org.

W H I L E M O S T O F U S like to keep our friends up on what’s going on in our lives through various social media sources, certain situations require the old saying, “Mum’s the word.” Talking about large financial transactions makes the stakes very high. Buying or selling your home is a perfect example of how saying too much can cost you more than you bargained for. Announcing too much information in your social media posts can end up costing you money!

Here’s an example that just recently happened. A set of buyers were so excited about their dream home they just found, so, of course, they had to share on Facebook.

Their post was something to the nature of: “Found our dream home, and we made an offer! Hope we get it!” Well, little did they know that one of their friends just happened to be friends with the seller of the “dream home”! What are the odds?! The sellers obviously knew then that the buyers were emotionally all-in and would do whatever it took—so they used it to their advantage. The sellers countered back to the buyers with the offer at fullasking price. So emotionally invested in this home, the buyers felt inclined to accept because they didn’t want to risk losing the house.

real estate CONSIDER HOLDING OFF ON

SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS BY: MELISSA BRAUN

It cost the buyers thousands of extra dollars, all because of their one excited Facebook post. With today’s easy digital access to information, it really can pay to be quiet about some things. Unfortunately, in this situation the buyers’ enthusiasm cost them while the sellers were very thankful for the Facebook clue that awarded them their actual list price.

I’m not saying that you can’t say anything on your social media pages. We all know that buying or selling a home is an exciting period in someone’s life, and you want to share with your friends. My advice, though, is to wait until the end of the transaction to post about it, or be very vague in your posts so you do not hinder your own negotiations. Maybe just share how great your agent has been in selecting houses you might consider. Or post how many showings your agent has had of your house and that you should be expecting a few offers any time now. Savor all the joy you feel about the end process on the day it becomes a done deal.

Just remember that sometimes, silence is golden.

Melissa Braun owns Newmel Properties, in Cornelius, with over a decade of real estate experience as a broker and realtor. For more information, visit www.newmelproperties.com, or call 704.773.8985.

w

42 LKN

© Ajv123ajv | Dreamstime.com | MAY 2016

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

43

40 hours a week. However, as many business owners understand, upward hours also include hours worked from home—for an entrepreneur’s work is never fully done. Recently, the hours have ticked back up toward 60, but for good reason.

In May, Showplace 28: Fine Furniture Consignment will open. The store, with the same square footage, will offer fine furniture that Consign-On-ADime customers have come to expect.

It will also have new accessories, such as lamps and décor, to pair with consignment furniture. In addition, Showplace 28 will offer factory-direct furniture. “It’s really exciting to have items at a fraction of the price,” Tamara says. “We have such loyal clients. Some come weekly to see what’s new; some come in every day! Also, stagers and designers come in looking for pieces.”

Sandra adds: “Yes, and we have clients furnishing second homes.”

Sandra Getts & Tamara Mullis CONSIGN ON A DIME / SHOWPLACE 28 CORNELIUS, NC

Twice As Nice: Two Women—With Two Stores!

BY: AMY HALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: CHELSEA BREN

women who are so at home in their industry that they make what they do seem simple. From the outside, that is. Sandra Getts and Tamara Mullis, owners of Consign On A Dime in Cornelius, are two such women.

WE ALL KNOW

The pair met while working at The Teahouse restaurant. Tamara waited tables; Sandra was in management. Eleven years ago, Sandra had moved to Lake Norman’s warmer climate from Michigan, where she had retired as a school district HR and financial manager.

Tamara grew up in Charlotte, graduating from Cameron School of Business at UNC Wilmington. Both were drawn to Lake

w

44 LKN

| MAY 2016

Norman’s water. After the restaurant closed, the two became lunch buddies and enjoyed bargain shopping together for “treasures,” the very kind they now sell in their store.

Consign On A Dime opened in June 2010, first in a house on Catawba Avenue. Soon, they needed space—literally—because moving wide, heavy furniture on a regular basis was a challenge in the one-time residence. Its current location on West Catawba Avenue is perfect.

But today, they need an additional 5,000 square feet, and adding on isn’t an option.

The women admit to some 60-hour weeks, but have managed to get to a “more reasonable”

After scouting several location options, Sandra and Tamara agree that when they walked into the Shops on the Green space, the decision was made: This was it. “We considered other nearby areas,” Sandra says, “but ultimately, we wanted to stay in the same community. We work here. We live here.” The accessibility from the interstate was appealing, even in light of all the toll-lane-project discussions. “We always have a waitlist to consign,” she says. “I’ve always said, ‘We have the Ferraris of furniture.’

When we opened this [first] store it was during a recession.”

The business naturally extends itself to community service. Furniture and items that don’t sell and owners don’t want returned are donated to local women’s shelters, family resource nonprofits, and Serenity House.

“Every day is different—and not just because the merchandise changes often,” Tamara says. They agree that one of the strangest items they agreed to consign—and sold!—was a 12foot hammerhead shark. “But what’s constant is that we have a faithful community of sophisticated consigners and buyers that makes us feel blessed to be doing what we love.”

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

45

…

…

Mind Body Spirit better me

better you

better world

Wellness Is A Proactive Matter BY: DR. JESSICA SLABAUGH

I’ve been interested in how the body and nervous systems function. As a competitive gymnast, I had to take care of my body mentally, physically, and nutritionally in attempt to prevent injuries and to have optimal function.

S I N C E I WA S YO U N G ,

Gymnastics is not only physically hard on the body, it is also mentally demanding.

One afternoon when I was 12, my beam coach made me stay on the beam for more than an hour trying to get me to connect an acro-series. It was a mental block that I couldn’t seem to overcome, but my coach thought if she could wear me out physically and mentally that I’d finally be able to connect the series.

Unfortunately, what happened instead was that my continual arching moves, or hyperextension, over and over again had been too much, and my body signaled pain.

The next day, I couldn’t get out of bed because of extreme lower back and leg pain.

I’d developed an acute spondylolisthesis,

w

46 LKN

| MAY 2016

meaning I’d fractured a weak area of the lumbar vertebra, which then moved forward, irritating the nerves. After a month of daily, acute pain radiating down my leg, my mother took me to a spine specialist who recommended a spinal fusion surgery—and also no more gymnastics.

Luckily, she had a close friend who suggested first trying chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care opened my eyes to a different health care philosophy: focusing on the root cause of an issue. If care is set forth properly, my body would actually heal itself. All I needed was proper nutrition, rest, spinal alignment, and proper muscle strength and flexibility. It was like a light bulb went off, and I understood the bigger picture. No drug or surgery would heal my body. I had to do my exercises diligently and go to my scheduled chiropractic appointments. It was hard work, but it paid off.

This experience led me to enroll at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida. A

technique that especially peaked my interest was SOT: sacro-occipital technique, developed by Dr. Bertram DeJarnette, an early pioneer of the profession. After obtaining an engineering degree, he studied osteopathy and received his D.C. His work and research is continued even today.

SOT combines specialized, integrated procedures including biomechanics, nutrition, soft-tissue techniques, and the diagnosis of the cranial sacral respiratory mechanism (CSRM). The CSRM is checked by examining, via palpation, the flow of cerebral spinal fluid, the nutrientrich fluid that nourishes the brain and spinal cord.

A recent patient is a young girl who was born with hydrocephalus, or fluid on the brain. She had already undergone several surgeries, including inserting a fluid-draining shunt in her brain. Before yet another surgery, I started SOT with her to improve her headaches. After her neurologist completed another examination, he concluded that the additional surgery was no longer necessary. As a practitioner, I can use this technique to improve CSF flow and improve some neurological issues.

The very gentle technique can be used on patients from infancy to 100 years old.

Dr. Jessica Slabaugh is a chiropractor at Ballas Chiropractic, specializing in sacro-occipital technique. Other techniques she and her partners and staff use include diversified adjusting, extremity adjusting, Thompson-drop technique, Cox flexion-distraction, acupuncture, dry needling, neuromuscular massage, Graston technique, and rehabilitative exercises. For more information or to inquire if a procedure is right for you, visit www.ballaschiropractic.com, or call 794.896.8080.

©Andybor | Dreamstime.com

The mind, body, and spirit are intimately connected. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral.

By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

MAY 2016 |

w

LKN

47

New Listing

Under Contract

Covington At LKN - Denver

Woodland Hills - Mooresville

New Construction! Craftsman style 2 story Landis Reed home with 4BRs/2.5 Baths. Many upgrades incl. H/W floors, 42” cabinets and Roman shower in Owner’s bath. MOVE IN READY. MLS # 3072300

2BR/2Bath ranch townhome.

No stairs, no steps and no lawn maintenance.

MLS # 3150009

$240,000

SOLD

Lovely 5+ acre home site in a prime Southwest Charlotte community. 1300 acres with a 17 acre amenity site including Lodge, tennis, swimming and nature trails. Convenient to uptown and the airport. $179,900

3BR/2 bath ranch townhome. Custom details.

Handicap accessible. Move in ready!

MLS # 3118361

$524,900

Available

Skybrook – Huntersville

3BRS/2 bath – 2 Story/Basement Townhome Outstanding condition. Many upgrades.

Cabarrus Co. taxes and schools MLS # 3150632

$202,900

Under Contract

The Sanctuary – Charlotte

MLS # 3145124

MLS # 3154318

SOLD

Dominion Village – Charlotte

Dominion Village - Charlotte

Beautiful 2 Story/finished basement home 4 BRS/3.5 Baths – Meticulously maintained Great location and great schools!

$299,990

Under Contract

Under Contract

Falls Cove Troutman

The last 2 remaining Developer owned home sites. Sites #31 and #61. $40,000 each

Available

The Farms – Mooresville

Beautifully wooded 1.152 acre cul-desac home site in this popular Lake Norman area community. Great amenity package and facility w/full time Activities Director. Boat storage within the community.

MLS # 3145108

$269,500

The Farms – Mooresville

WATERVIEW .89 acre wooded home site in this sought after community. Unlimited timeframe to build. Easy access to Lake Norman.

MLS # 3145038

$143,900

$133,900

Available

The Sanctuary Charlotte

The last 3 remaining Developer owned home sites in this stunning community.

Sites #123, #137, and #150. $64,000 to $72,000

Available

Northview Harbour Sherrills Ford

Developer owned lot with inc. boatslip.

Borders common open space.

MLS # 3042247

$49,900

SMILE ON BUZZ CITY! WHEN HUGO COMES IN DEMANDING A STATE-OF-THE-ART

SMILE ENHANCEMENT AND YOU HAVE TO TELL HIM

‘SORRY DUDE, YOU HAVE NO TEETH’ FOLLOW

LINEBERGER ORTHODONTICS O N FAC E B O O K

u p to w n o f f i c e o p e n i n g L AT E S P R I N G